BBL and the 44 Heroes

The Bangsamoro Basic Law, as it is now (I’ve read the files), has so many loopholes that could create more chaos a few years from now, if (or when) an aggressive, ruthless extremist like ISIS takes over the MILF leadership (as it has done over Abu Sayyaf, and other Muslim extremist factions). Some might scoff at the idea now, but look at what’s happening in Syria, Lebanon and other ME countries, and even France, where even their own governments were caught unawares and were helpless to stop the actions of terrorists/ruthless men. I am sure that there are more Filipino Muslims who can adhere to our current Constitution, which is fair enough for all faiths, so why push for a different Law that has the potential to encourage honor killings and pedophilia?

My prayer is that leaders on all sides will stop their pissing contests, and do what is right — lay down arms and return lands that need to be returned. Righteousness and justice go hand in hand before peace can really be attained. Who are those in power who tried to grab lands that were not theirs in the first place? Bring them to justice, no matter how rich or influential they may be now. Bring to justice those who killed 57 people, including unarmed journalists and women in Maguindanao, and see if people in the area will put their trust and support for a national government once again.

Infinitesimal moment of silence before the fireworks

Two months since my last blog entry. I’ve been finding it difficult to write, not for lack of things to talk about, but because sometimes I think the more compassionate thing to do is to keep quiet.

Changed for good

“Because I knew you, I have been changed for good.” This song played in my mind when I saw you for the first time, as you slept soundly in your Daddy’s arms.

Eight years ago, you came into our lives and made our world brighter. I am truly grateful to our Heavenly Father for giving you to us. Not a day goes by that we don’t pray for you. We love you very much, and know that God loves you so much more. May you continue to be a channel of His love and joy, our little man!

Jude turns 8 and shares his cake with church brethren

J’aime Moriyah enjoys the giant fishes at Ocean Park

My favorite clown

Little Man poses with the fishes

“So this is how snow feels like…”

Touch me not: a resurrection of the Filipino spirit

In the Latin Bible, Jesus Christ said to Mary after His resurrection, “Noli Me tangere…” (John 20:17). Inspired by these words, Dr. Jose Rizal penned a novel about the resurrection of the Filipino people, whose time had come to arise and forge a new destiny without the oppressive grip of Spain and her abusive padres.

This novel by our National Hero was crafted into a beautiful opera by National Artists Felipe P. De Leon and Guillermo Tolentino, circa 1957. A generation passed until this opera was staged in a foreign land, where philanthropists Loida Nicolas Lewis, Jerry Sibal and Edwin Josue heard the stirring music and lyrics in the mother tongue. The foreigners who listened to and watched the opera with them could not fully understand what the story meant—but for the Filipinos in the audience, the story was not lost, and the Motherland’s anguish was clear: Come to me, my sons, do not let me die.

Batang Batis (Children of the Spring)

Let me just say, as an aspiring photo hobbyist, I am a fan of Humans of New York (HONY). I love the portraits and their stories, reminding us that we are more alike than we are different, no matter where we live. Inspired by this, I thought of taking portraits of the children who attend our church outreaches. I never knew how powerful a camera could be until today. During regular church events, these children are normally shy and reserved. But in this workshop, while I took their photos on their street, as I focused the lens on them, they were very open and willing to share with me their hopes and dreams, and even some of their struggles. Giving the right kind of attention really does make a difference to a child’s self-confidence.

He’s finally here!

Look who’s so happy, she fought her naptime off so she could play with Rex. Thanks, dearest sister Lora (and to your Tita) for sending Rex to Manila!

The Partysaurus arrives

“But I just want to have tea with you!”

She knows where it is

She was about to sleep but all of a sudden woke herself up to check out the mysteriously familiar toy

Missing Jesse here. Can’t seem to remember where Choco boy placed her.

The Partysaurus storms the spaceship

Thank you, 777!

Honestly, I didn’t think it would even reach 100, but today I found out there are 777 beautiful people who follow my blog. I want to say THANK YOU to each one of you reading this!

As my way to say thanks to you for being awesome, I dedicate this humble photo and graphic I created (just now) to you, dear friend.

Never lose hope. Keep faith alive. Let love rule!

And since gratitude is a great attitude to dwell in, let’s get it rolling — feel free to share about things that make you say “thanks” in the comments portion. Have a blessed day!